Surname Cress - Meaning and Origin
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The results from my iGENEA DNA test presented an astonishing array of surprises and unexpected turns. The revelation surrounding my Cress surname was both illuminating and completely unforeseen, unlocking hidden facets of my history and heritage. This journey into my DNA unveiled a deep and profound connection to a part of the world I never expected, redefining what I knew about my lineage.
B. Cress
read moreCress: What does the surname Cress mean?
The surname Cress is of English origin, derived from the Old English "caerse," which later became "crese" in Middle English. Both these terms meaning a type of watercress, a leafy aquatic plant used in salads. In a larger context, this name was likely a metonymic occupational surname given to vendors of watercress or maybe derived from a geographic indication for an individual living near a spot habited by watercress. Therefore, it's an occupational or topographic surname. The recorded variations of this surname are Cressy, Cressi, Cresse, etc. This surname, being ancient, has witnesses quite a few historical events and is thus dispersed across multiple countries, indicating its English, German or French roots. As per its American history, the Cress lineage emigrated from Europe during colonial times and established itself predominantly in the regions of Pennsylvania, Ohio, and North Carolina. Please note that the meaning and origin of surnames can sometimes be speculative, based upon the best scholarly analysis.
Order DNA origin analysisCress: Where does the name Cress come from?
The surname Cress is of Anglo-Saxon origin, deriving from an Old English pre 7th Century word "cærse", which later evolved into "cressa", meaning "cress". The surname was likely bestowed upon people who produced or sold this plant.
This surname has multiple potential derivations. It could be a metonymic occupational surname, given to a grower or seller of watercress. Alternatively, it might be locational, referring to individuals who lived by a water source where watercress grew.
The surname Cress can be found in different variations such as Cresse, Crease, and Crees. It has seen the most significant prevalence in English-speaking countries like the United States, United Kingdom, Canada, and Australia. Today, it is most common in the United States, particularly in the states of Pennsylvania and Indiana. Although the surname has spread to various parts of the world, it remains fairly uncommon and is not frequently found outside of these regions.
Variations of the surname Cress
The surname Cress is believed to be spelled in different ways with its possible variants including Kress, Kreiss, Kraus, Krauss, Kreis, Cresse, Krebs, and Krez. It is often changed due to regional dialects, spelling errors, or anglicization.
The name Cress is of German descent. Kress is the most common German form of this surname, which was often used to denote someone who lived near cress plants. Krebs, meaning cancer in German, is also a variant of the name.
The surname Cress may also have derived from the old Germanic personal names, Criess, Kresling, or Christ which were fairly common during the Middle Ages.
Some forms of the surname Cress possibly originated from other names. For example, the name Kraus or Krauss, of German origin, is a nickname for someone with curly hair.
The variant spelling Kreis is also of German origin and can be found in Jewish (Ashkenazic) communities where it's often an occupational name for an official in charge of a judicial district.
Variants of the surname Cress might also include certain patronymic surnames, that is, they may have been based on the father's given name, creating names like Kresson, Cresson, or Kressin.
Famous people with the name Cress
- Rebecca Cress: Famous American author, known for her books on paper folding and design.
- Tim Cress: A notable American cricket player.
- Laura Cress: A British radio presenter and writer.
- Francis Cress Welsing: An American psychiatrist and author; her works are focused on racism.
- Laura Cress: A Canadian TV personality and a famous TV producer who has worked for CNBC Europe.
- Brad Cress: Australian professional Rugby League player.
- Sarah Cress: American ceramic artist recognized for her sculpture work.
- James Cress: A prominent figure in the United Church of Christ organization.
- Darren Cress: Professional football player known in the minor leagues.
- Nathan Cress: An American actor, director, and former child model, best known for his role in the Nickelodeon series iCarly. It should be noted that spelling variations such as 'Kress' and 'Cressy' might exist, potentially referring to other famous individuals not listed here.